A powerful summary of the difficulties faced by young Irish people as a new year comes into focus.

If you're not familiar with Dublin poet Natalya O'Flaherty, her turn on Friday night's edition of The Late Late Show should leave a lasting impression.

The 18-year-old has impressed on the iconic show before, so it was no surprise to see her return in such commanding fashion.

"She's somebody that we enjoy seeing because she's got so much to say and she says it so well," noted host Ryan Tubridy.

O'Flaherty stood beneath an intimate spotlight to deliver 'Brass Tax', a powerful piece that reflects the increasing struggles of her generation, underlining just how difficult it is for many young Irish people to simply keep their heads above water.